News Back to school for local banker
A banker went back to school to pass on her business expertise to children.
Muriel Tomlinson, from NatWest's Goole branch, took part in an enterprise day at Howden School to help 150 Year 9 pupils come up with fresh business ideas as part of the NatWest MoneySense for Schools programme.
As part of the challenge, teams of pupils were given a budget of £1,800 and then posed as catering companies tasked to plan a meal for 100 people, including food and wine.
Each team had to compete against each other and create their own logo and business card, menu and table decorations, then present their proposals for the dinner and demonstrate how they had allocated their budget.
The aim of the project, called We're in Business - Enterprise Day, was to give pupils a better understanding of the importance of finance in business and the range of support that banks can offer small businesses.
It was also aimed at developing pupils' teamwork, communication, self-confidence and role-play skills.
The youngsters were provided with advice and guidance under the NatWest MoneySense for Schools programme, a national project which takes pupils through the basics of banking and financial management - from opening a bank account to managing money on a day-to-day basis as part of living independently away from home.
MoneySense for Schools simplifies real-life experiences and engages young people in a variety of role-playing scenarios and other interactive learning exercises to give them experience in making financial decisions and managing their personal finances.
Maggie Newton, a teacher at Howden School, said: "MoneySense for Schools really brings classroom subjects alive. It is extremely practical and fun for pupils and staff, who all gained a valuable insight into the world of personal and business banking. It was a great addition to our Enterprise Day."
Margaret Hudson, NatWest's MoneySense's regional coach, said: "The importance of financial capability for young people cannot be underestimated. They need to be equipped with the skills and confidence required to make decisions in adult life.
"The pupils were placed in real-life business situations to engage their creativity and utilise their key skills. It was great to see their confidence grow throughout the activity."
MoneySense for Schools was developed with the help of teachers and is designed to be delivered within the curriculum in subjects such as maths, English, Business Studies and Personal, Social and Health Education.
Published on 29th May 2008 in News.
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